Istanbul: Old City and Bosphorus Bus Tour With Lunch

Exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Istanbul has never been more captivating. The "Old City and Bosphorus Bus Tour With Lunch" offers an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the serene Sultan Ahmed Mosque. As you venture into the historic neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, you’ll uncover the city’s vibrant past, complemented by an authentic Turkish lunch and a mesmerizing Bosphorus cruise. Whether you’re a history buff or a culture enthusiast, this comprehensive tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the diverse wonders that Istanbul has to offer.

Key Points

• This comprehensive 12-hour tour covers the highlights of Istanbul, including visits to iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and the Spice Bazaar.
• The tour includes a 2-hour Bosphorus boat cruise, providing breathtaking views of the city’s waterways and historic neighborhoods.
• Participants will enjoy an authentic Turkish lunch with a panoramic view, immersing them in the culinary heritage of the city.
• The tour encompasses guided visits to historic churches, mosques, and the charming neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, showcasing Istanbul’s diverse cultural heritage.
• The tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants, except for wheelchair users, and has received a 5/5 rating from verified reviews.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Istanbul: Old City and Bosphorus Bus Tour with Lunch" is a comprehensive 12-hour tour that allows visitors to explore the rich history and iconic landmarks of Istanbul.

Priced at $99.45 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided tours, entry tickets, and a panoramic lunch.

Highlights include visiting the Suleymaniye Mosque, Sveti Stefan Church, St. Georges Cathedral, Balat, Fener, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and the Spice Bazaar.

Participants will also enjoy a relaxing 2-hour boat cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.

The tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants, though not for wheelchair users.

With a 5/5 rating based on verified reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience of Istanbul’s history and culture.

Itinerary Highlights

Beginning with the tour’s pickup options, guests can choose between the designated location at Rağıp Gümüşpala Cd. No:24.

The tour then takes visitors to explore Istanbul’s rich history, with guided visits to several iconic sites. Highlights include the Suleymaniye Mosque, Sveti Stefan Church, and St. Georges Cathedral, followed by walking tours through the vibrant neighborhoods of Balat and Fener.

After enjoying an authentic Turkish lunch with a panoramic view, the tour continues to the Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and the Spice Bazaar.

The day concludes with a relaxing 2-hour boat cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, offering stunning views of both sides of the city.

• Suleymaniye Mosque (1 hour guided tour)
• Sveti Stefan Church (30 minutes guided tour)
• St. Georges Cathedral (30 minutes guided tour)
• Balat (30 minutes walking tour)
• Fener (30 minutes walking tour)

Exploring Istanbul’s Rich History

How does this iconic tour invite visitors to explore Istanbul’s rich history? The comprehensive itinerary covers the city’s key landmarks, each with a guided tour. From the towering Suleymaniye Mosque to the charming neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, the tour showcases Istanbul’s diverse cultural influences – Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Highlights include:

Site	Duration	Key Significance
Hagia Sophia	1 hour	Former Byzantine church, later Ottoman mosque, now museum
Sultanahmet Square	30 minutes	Historic center of Constantinople
Sultan Ahmed Mosque	30 minutes	Also known as the Blue Mosque, iconic Ottoman architecture
Spice Bazaar	30 minutes	Historic market, vibrant hub of trade

The culminating Bosphorus cruise offers a unique perspective on Istanbul’s harmonious blend of past and present.

Iconic Landmarks and Neighborhoods

Spanning the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, this comprehensive tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Istanbul’s storied past.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the architectural masterpiece of the Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque that now stands as a museum.

• Marveling at the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, with its iconic blue tiles and six slender minarets.

• Wandering through the charming streets of Balat and Fener, historic neighborhoods that showcase the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

• Delighting in the aromas and colors of the lively Spice Bazaar, a bustling marketplace that has been a hub of trade for centuries.

• Embarking on a serene Bosphorus boat cruise, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline and the waterway that separates Europe and Asia.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Authentic Turkish Lunch Experience

After exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, the tour offers a chance to savor the city’s rich culinary heritage with an authentic Turkish lunch.

The meal is served at a local restaurant with a panoramic view, allowing guests to take in the stunning scenery as they indulge in traditional dishes.

The lunch features a selection of Turkish specialties, giving visitors a true taste of the country’s cuisine.

This one-hour dining experience provides a welcoming and immersive cultural interlude, complementing the tour’s comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s history and architecture.

Scenic Bosphorus Boat Cruise

The tour’s final activity treats guests to a serene two-hour cruise along the famed Bosphorus Strait. This scenic waterway separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, offering stunning views of the city skyline, historic landmarks, and mansions lining the shores.

Passengers can admire:

• Opulent Ottoman palaces and villas
• The Maiden’s Tower, a small fortress on an islet
• Bridges connecting the two continents
• Charming neighborhoods like Ortaköy and Arnavutköy
• Seagulls and other wildlife gliding over the sparkling waters

The relaxing boat ride provides a tranquil end to a comprehensive tour showcasing Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes several key elements to provide a comprehensive Istanbul experience.

Travelers can expect hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus, guided tours and entry tickets where necessary, a scenic Bosphorus boat cruise, and an authentic Turkish lunch.

The tour also includes walking tours through the historic neighborhoods of Balat and Fener.

Exclusions are additional food and drinks, as well as tips for the guide and driver.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and participants must be adults (8-99 years), children (3-7 years), or infants (2 and younger).

Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

The tour is open to a range of participants, including adults aged 8-99 years, children aged 3-7 years, and infants 2 and younger. Based on the customer review, the overall rating for this tour is 5/5 from a verified booking.

• Tour participants must check availability for specific dates and times.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned bus, guided tours and entry tickets where necessary, a boat cruise, lunch, and walking tours.

Exclusions include additional food and drinks, as well as tips for the guide and driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

While the tour itinerary is pre-set, some customization may be possible. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about modifying the schedule or adding/removing certain sites to better suit their interests and needs.

Can the Tour Be Conducted in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour can be conducted in other languages besides English. While the default language is English, it may be possible to request a live guide in an alternative language, depending on availability and additional fees.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. They should be mindful of cultural norms and avoid overly revealing or disrespectful attire when visiting religious sites.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are discounts available for group bookings. The tour operator offers reduced rates for groups of 4 or more people. Customers can contact the company directly to inquire about group pricing and availability.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bosphorus Cruise?

No, guests are not permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the Bosphorus cruise. The tour package includes a lunch at a local restaurant, and any additional food or drinks must be purchased separately during the cruise.

Recap

This guided tour provides a immersive experience of Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture. Visitors will explore iconic landmarks, discover historic neighborhoods, savor an authentic Turkish lunch, and enjoy a relaxing Bosphorus cruise. With a comprehensive itinerary and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an unforgettable way to discover the city’s architectural wonders and gain deeper insights into its captivating past.

You can check if your dates are available here: